As Davos draws to a close, prominent figures in the climate change debate warn 'green growth is the only growth we can afford’
Connie Hedegaard, Denmark’s Minister for Climate and Energy, says: "We, the politicians of the world, have a responsibility to reach a truly global climate change agreement in Copenhagen in December 2009. But it is the business society that can deliver the tools to turn our vision into reality. Businesses can provide the clever solutions to make it possible to live in a both modern and sustainable society. Luckily, this is the path that ensures jobs, growth and the answers on how to use the scarce energy resources in a more intelligent manner. That is why green growth is the only growth we can afford."
Professor Tim Flannery, Chairman of Copenhagen Climate Council and internationally acclaimed scientist, explorer and conservationist, adds: “Immediate action to address climate change is imperative. Not action that will take effect in the time of our grandchildren, but measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions now. The global response to our current economic crisis demonstrates that governments can supply decisive and reasoned solutions. Our response to the climate crisis will define our generation. The message we deliver to policymakers on the road to Copenhagen in 2009 must be unequivocal: it is only through bold, unwavering leadership that this challenge can be met.”